Posted by Koji Tanaka on August 31, 2009 at 15:09:16:
Swine flu season is almost upon us. Many will be receiving swine flu vaccines, but authorities note that not enough vaccines will be available to all. Those on the priority list, who are most vulnerable to swine flu, will be the first to receive the vaccines.
Some people may even want to avoid the swine flu vaccine because of the possible dangers involved.
Natural options for swine flu immunity
The naturopathic school teaches some methods of attaining a strong general as opposed to specific immunity. Here are some steps you can take:
Avoid stress as it depresses the immune system. Make sure to get enough sleep and rest, and maintain a good attitude.
Eat a well-balanced nutritious diet. Your immune systems need quite a lot of nutrients to work properly and also plenty of fluids. Stay hydrated as some parts of the immune system nearly shuts down when you are dehydrated!
Be sociable. This may be counter-intuitive, but interacting with lots of people builds up your general immunity. You may even attain specific immunity through social contact. However, take some precautions to avoid contracting disease. Wash your hands with some germicidal cleanser before, after and if possible during social engagements. Chewing gum or sucking on mints activates the immunoglobulin in your saliva, which is your first defense against rhinoviruses of all types. Chew some gum when you head out to affairs and pop a mint during the events and offer then to others as well. Stay hydrated!
Good herbal supplements are astragalus, echinacea, bitter melon and pau d'arco. Also use plenty of probiotics. During flu season try eating yogurt or similar probiotic foods every day. Garlic and nutritional yeast are great.
Good vitamins and minerals are vitamin C, vitamin B complex, vitamin E, zinc and selenium. Avoid eating too much iron during swine flu season.
At the first sign of a flu or cold, hit the herbal stimulants like clove buds, cinnamon, cayenne, anise, etc.
Stay physically fit but be very careful not to overdo it especially when you are in public contact with other people.
Swine flu hopefully will not be as bad as predicted, but it is always good to be cautious. By taking these simple steps, you may be able to avoid the disease even without a swine flu vaccination!
